Nj joins multistate legal fight against trump orders against law firms — Courtroom- stock photo

Attorney General Davenport backs challenge to federal actions affecting major firms

Trenton, NJ – New Jersey Attorney General Jennifer Davenport has joined a coalition of 21 attorneys general in a legal challenge supporting several major law firms targeted by executive orders issued during the Trump administration. The coalition filed an amicus brief in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit, arguing the orders violate constitutional protections and threaten the legal system.

The brief backs four law firms—Jenner & Block LLP, Perkins Coie LLP, Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale LLP, and Susman Godfrey LLP—that are challenging the executive actions. According to the filing, the orders imposed restrictions and sanctions on the firms in response to their legal work and clients.

Coalition argues orders undermine legal system

Attorney General Davenport sharply criticized the actions outlined in the case. “It is darkly ironic, frankly, that during America’s 250th anniversary, President Trump is continuing his crusade to rip apart the very foundations of the rule of law embedded in the Constitution,” Davenport said. “The legal profession depends on attorneys being able to represent clients independent of political pressure. If this isn’t true, and law firms can’t practice without fear of being punished by the President, what remains of the rule of law? We must fight back.”

Key Points

New Jersey co-led 21-state coalition filing amicus brief in federal appeals court
Lawsuit challenges Trump-era executive orders targeting major law firms
Officials argue actions violate First Amendment and threaten legal independence

The executive orders, issued in March and April 2025, directed federal agencies to take multiple actions against the firms, including suspending security clearances, limiting access to federal buildings, and requiring disclosure of business relationships that could lead to contract terminations.

Courts have already raised constitutional concerns

According to the coalition, several federal judges have already found the orders unconstitutional on multiple grounds. “Four different district judges have recognized that these executive orders are unconstitutional in several respects, including because they are retaliatory and viewpoint discriminatory in violation of the First Amendment,” the release stated.

The brief argues that allowing such actions to stand could have broader consequences beyond the firms involved. Officials say it could discourage attorneys from taking on controversial or politically sensitive cases, particularly those involving public interest or pro bono work.

“As the amici states write, the willingness of lawyers to represent such causes without fear of reprisal is vital for the rule of law, our system of justice, and our democracy,” the statement said.

The case now moves forward in the appellate court, where the coalition is urging judges to uphold prior rulings blocking enforcement of the orders.

New Jersey attorney general lawsuit, Trump law firm executive order, amicus brief states coalition, First Amendment law firms case, Davenport NJ legal challenge

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